Ruellia caroliniensis

Ruellia caroliniensis (J.F. Gmel.) Steud.

Carolina wild petunia

Synonym(s):

An unbranched, 2-3 ft. perennial with crowded, opposite,oval leaves and flowers in unstalked, axillary clusters of 2-4. Usually only one or two of the light purple flowers are open on any given day. The flowers have a slender corolla tube and five, petal-like lobes. Seeds are borne on hooked projections. Violet, trumpet-shaped flowers on short hairy stems from leaf axils.

Among the seven other members of this genus occuring in the East, this one is recognized by the long-pointed calyx lobes and bracts under the flower. The flowers of Ruellia species recall garden petunias (genus Petunia) of the nightshade family (Solanaceae).

Distribution

Growing Conditions

Light Requirement: Part Shade Soil Moisture: Moist Soil Description: Dry, sandy soils. Conditions Comments: A number of varieties and forms occur throughout the eastern U.S.

Propagation

Description: Seeds may be planted immediately after collection or stored and sown in spring. Germination is low. Seedlings should be given protection until the second year. Summer stem cuttings seem to root well. Seed Collection: Capsules change from yellow to green to brown over a 2 month period following flowering. A mature capsule is smooth and 1/2 in. long. Be sure to monitor closely as capsules dehisce mature seeds. Store seeds dry in an airtight, refrigerated container. Seed Treatment: Not Available Commercially Avail: yes